A powerful explosion ripped through a factory in Himachal Pradesh's Nalagarh area, with the banned terrorist outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) claiming responsibility for the attack. The group stated the target was chosen due to the factory's alleged involvement in supplying synthetic drugs to Punjab.
Blast Details and Immediate Aftermath
The incident occurred on the night of April 29 at an industrial unit located in the Baddi Barotiwala Nalagarh (BBN) region of Solan district. Preliminary investigations by the state police suggest an improvised explosive device (IED) was used to cause the blast, which resulted in substantial damage to the factory's structure.
Authorities confirmed that the explosion was significant enough to be heard from a considerable distance, shaking nearby areas. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported from the incident, as the factory was not operational at the time of the explosion.
BKI's Claim and Alleged Motive
In a statement circulated online, the Babbar Khalsa International claimed they executed the blast. The group's communication explicitly named the factory, Om Satya Exim Private Limited, as the target. Their stated motive was to disrupt what they described as a supply chain funneling synthetic narcotics from Himachal Pradesh into Punjab.
The BKI's message accused the factory owners of being involved in the drug trade and declared that such entities would face consequences. This claim has shifted the focus of the investigation towards potential narcotics-related activities alongside the primary probe into the terror act.
Police Investigation and State Response
Himachal Pradesh police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the blast. Forensic teams have been deployed to the site to collect evidence and determine the exact composition and trigger mechanism of the IED. The case is being treated with high priority given the involvement of a proscribed terrorist organization.
Senior police officials have stated that all angles, including the terrorism claim and the alleged drug connection, are being thoroughly examined. The history and operations of the targeted factory are under scrutiny. The state government has been briefed on the situation, and security has been heightened in the industrial belt.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the complex interplay between organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and extremist activities. The investigation continues as authorities work to verify the claims and apprehend those responsible for planning and executing the attack.
